Santa Maria FAQ

Activities & attractions

The bay, islands, marine life and adventures worth planning for.

  1. 01What are the top things to do in Santa Maria?Popular activities include deep-sea fishing, snorkelling at the Aquarium, kayaking, dune walks and boat trips to Inhaca or Portuguese Island.Read full guide
  2. 02What is Hell's Gate, or Ponta Torres?Ponta Torres is the tidal channel separating the Santa Maria side of the Machangulo Peninsula from Inhaca Island, known for drift snorkelling and game fishing.Read full guide
  3. 03Can you drive your vehicle on the beach in Santa Maria?No. Driving on beaches is illegal in Mozambique and damages sensitive marine and dune habitats. Heavy fines may apply.Read full guide
  4. 04Is Santa Maria suitable for a family holiday?Yes. The bay side has calm, shallow water and the area offers family-sized self-catering stays and relaxed outdoor activities.Read full guide
  5. 05Can I go surf fishing or shore angling from the Santa Maria ocean beaches?Yes, shore angling along the main ocean beach and rocky headlands is very popular.Read full guide
  6. 06Are there designated hiking or bird-watching trails on the Machangulo Peninsula?While formal paved trails do not exist, extensive sand paths lead through coastal dune forests, around mangrove lagoons, and along ocean cliffs.Read full guide
  7. 07What is the history of the name "Santa Maria"?The peninsula and channel were named during 16th-century Portuguese maritime exploration along the East African coast.Read full guide
  8. 08Can I rent boats, kayaks, or quad bikes in Santa Maria village?Commercial equipment rental shops do not exist in the village center.Read full guide
  9. 09What activities can guests participate in?Guests can arrange snorkelling, kayaking, deep-sea fishing charters, ocean safaris and boat trips to nearby islands or Ponta Abril, plus morning beach walks and evening campfires.Read full guide
  10. 10Does Bemugi's offer deep-sea fishing charters?Yes, deep-sea game fishing trips are available in 4-hour or 6-hour options, with fishing gear and bait provided. Note that 50% of the catch remains with the boat.Read full guide
  11. 11Can I visit nearby islands like Inhaca or Portuguese Island?Yes, sea safaris and boat charters can be organized on-site to explore Inhaca Island, Portuguese Island (Ilha dos Portugueses) and Ponta Abril.Read full guide
  12. 12What is the Sunset Deck at Bemugi's?The Sunset Deck is a popular beachfront viewing spot at Bemugi's where guests can enjoy drinks, meals and evening sunsets over the bay.Read full guide